Cat And Dog Allergy And Dermatology Services In West Melbourne Fl

Cat & Dog Allergy and Dermatology Services in West Melbourne, FL

Skin issues and allergies are common problems for pets, and at Maybeck Animal Hospital, we understand how uncomfortable these conditions can be for your cat or dog. Whether it's persistent scratching, red and inflamed skin, or frequent ear infections, dermatological issues can impact your pet's quality of life. Our team is here to help you identify, diagnose, and manage these issues, so your pet feels comfortable in their own skin.

Is your pet scratching, chewing, and licking until their skin is raw? If so, schedule a dermatological consultation today!

Make an Appointment

Common Skin Conditions and Allergies in Pets

Pets can experience a variety of skin conditions, many of which are caused by allergies. Here are some of the most common issues we see:

Environmental Allergies
Known as atopic dermatitis, environmental allergies can be triggered by pollen, dust, and mold, and usually cause itchy skin, especially around the face, paws, and belly. Seasonal allergies may worsen during certain times of the year, causing flare-ups.

Flea Allergies
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is an intense allergic reaction to flea saliva. Pets with FAD often have severe itching, especially near the base of their tail, and may lose hair or develop scabs from constant scratching.

Food Allergies
Some pets have food sensitivities or allergies, often to the protein source in their diet, like chicken, lamb, or fish. These allergies can cause itchy skin, recurrent ear infections, and digestive issues. Unlike environmental allergies, food allergies are typically year-round.

Hot Spots
Hot spots are areas of inflamed, infected skin that can occur when pets lick or scratch themselves excessively. They’re often triggered by underlying allergies or insect bites and can develop seemingly overnight.

Bacterial and Fungal Infections
Skin infections, often secondary to another condition like allergies, are common in pets. Bacterial infections cause redness, oozing, and sometimes a foul odor, while fungal infections, like ringworm, can result in scaly patches and hair loss.

Diagnostic Tools for Skin and Allergy Issues in Pets

Diagnosing skin and allergy problems requires a thorough evaluation, as symptoms can be similar across different conditions. Our veterinary team uses several diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of your pet’s skin issues:

Skin Scraping and Cytology
These tests allow us to examine skin cells under a microscope to check for mites, bacteria, yeast, and other problems that could be contributing to your pet’s discomfort.

Allergy Testing
To determine specific environmental allergens, we may recommend blood testing or skin testing. These tests can help identify which allergens are causing your pet’s symptoms, so we can develop a targeted treatment plan.

Elimination Diets
For pets suspected of having food allergies, we may suggest an elimination diet, where certain ingredients are removed from their diet for several months. If symptoms improve, we can start reintroducing ingredients to pinpoint the exact allergen.

Flea Combing
A simple flea comb can confirm the presence of fleas or flea dirt. Since fleas are a common trigger for skin issues, flea control is essential in managing skin health.

Small Dog Biting Paw

Treatment Options for Pet Skin Issues

Once we determine the cause of your pet’s skin or allergy issue, we’ll recommend treatments to relieve their symptoms and address the root cause. Some common treatments include:

  • Anti-itch medication (Apoquel, Cytopoint)
  • Short-term corticosteroids
  • Immunotherapy
  • Topical therapies (medicated shampoos, sprays, ointments)
  • Diet change
  • Flea control
  • Antimicrobial or antifungal medication
  • Ear cleansers and medications
  • Skin health supplements

If your pet is dealing with itchy skin, hair loss, or other skin issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you restore your pet’s comfort and keep their coat healthy and vibrant.

Make an Appointment